Prune Like a Pro: When to Prune Trees and Shrubs for a Healthier Landscape

TL;DR:
Knowing when to prune trees and shrubs is essential for keeping your landscape healthy, safe, and beautiful. Most trees benefit from winter pruning when they’re dormant, while many flowering shrubs need trimming right after they bloom. Timing matters—prune too early or too late, and you risk damaging the plant or missing out on blooms.
Need help planning your seasonal pruning? Call (201)254-5752orcontact us online.

A Seasonal Guide to Knowing When to Prune Trees and Shrubs the Right Way

Trees and shrubs are the backbone of your landscape, but without proper care, they can quickly become overgrown, damaged, or unhealthy. One of the most effective ways to maintain their health and appearance is through strategic pruning—but when to prune trees and shrubs depends on the type of plant and the time of year.

To make sure your landscape stays safe, vibrant, and structurally sound, contact the professionals atBorst Landscape & Design. Call (201)254-5752 orreach out onlineto schedule a consultation.

Why Timing Is Everything

Pruning at the wrong time can do more harm than good. Trim too early, and you could stimulate growth just before a hard freeze. Prune too late, and you might cut off the season’s flower buds. Knowing the right window for each species helps protect the plant, encourage better blooming, and shape the growth.

The right timing also:

• Reduces the risk of disease
• Promotes healing and proper wound closure
• Prevents unnecessary stress to the plant

General Rule of Thumb

Late winter to early spring(while the plant is still dormant) is the best time to prune most deciduous trees and some shrubs. At this stage, the plant’s energy is still focused on root development, and pruning encourages strong, healthy new growth in the spring.

However, not all trees and shrubs follow this rule—especially flowering varieties. That’s why it’s important to understand the specific needs of each plant in your yard.

When to Prune Trees

Deciduous Trees (Maple, Oak, Elm, Birch)

• Best Time:Late winter to early spring (February to early April)
• Why:The tree is dormant, making it easier to see the shape and avoid cutting new buds.
• Avoid:Mid-summer, as excessive sap flow and heat stress may occur.

Evergreen Trees (Pine, Spruce, Fir)

• Best Time:Late winter or very early spring
• Alternative Time:Light shaping can be done in late June
• Tip:Avoid cutting into the brown central “candle” area on pines, as it won’t regrow.

Flowering Trees (Dogwood, Cherry, Magnolia, Redbud)

• Spring Bloomers:Prune right after flowering to avoid cutting off next year’s buds.
• Summer Bloomers:Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

When to Prune Shrubs

Spring-Flowering Shrubs (Lilac, Forsythia, Rhododendron, Azalea)

• Best Time:Immediately after they finish blooming
• Why:These shrubs form buds in late summer and fall, so late pruning removes flower potential.

Summer-Flowering Shrubs (Hydrangea paniculata, Butterfly Bush, Spirea)

• Best Time:Late winter or early spring, before new growth starts
• Why:These bloom on new wood, so pruning stimulates fresh growth and more flowers.

Non-Flowering or Foliage Shrubs (Boxwood, Privet, Arborvitae)

• Best Time:Early spring before growth begins
• Alternative:Light shaping and trimming can be done through the growing season, but avoid harsh cuts in late summer or fall.

Special Considerations

Avoid Pruning in Fall

Fall is generally the worst time to prune most trees and shrubs. As plants begin to go dormant, cuts made in fall can:

• Invite disease and pest issues
• Disrupt the plant’s hardening-off process for winter
• Lead to weakened growth

Prune for Health Anytime

You can always remove:

• Dead or diseased branches
• Broken or hazardous limbs
• Crossing or rubbing branches that may cause wounds

These types of cuts can be made year-round and are considered “corrective pruning.”

Signs It’s Time to Prune

• Overgrown or misshapen growth
• Dead or damaged limbs
• Shrubs growing over walkways, windows, or siding
• Weak flowering or fruiting performance
• Early signs of disease or pest infestation

If you notice any of these, it’s time to plan a pruning session based on the plant type and current season.

Tools for Safe and Effective Pruning

Invest in the right tools to make clean cuts and avoid damaging the plant:

• Hand prunersfor small branches
• Loppersfor thicker stems and branches
• Pruning sawfor branches over 1 inch thick
• Pole prunersfor high, hard-to-reach branches

Always disinfect your tools between plants to prevent the spread of disease.

Quick Reference Guide: When to Prune Trees and Shrubs

Plan Ahead for Healthier Plants

Understanding when to prune trees and shrubs helps ensure a healthier, more attractive landscape. With proper timing, you’ll encourage vigorous growth, better blooms, and improved structure—while avoiding stress, disease, and disappointment.

For help planning and executing your seasonal pruning, call (201)254-5752orcontact Borst Landscape & Designto get expert guidance for your landscape.

FAQs About When to Prune Trees and Shrubs

Can I prune trees in the summer?
Only if necessary. Avoid heavy pruning in summer, but it’s fine to remove damaged or hazardous limbs.

What happens if I prune shrubs at the wrong time?
You may lose that season’s flowers or stimulate growth that gets damaged in the cold. It’s not always fatal, but poor timing can weaken the plant.

Do all flowering shrubs need pruning?
Not always. Some bloom beautifully without much shaping, but others benefit from annual thinning to rejuvenate growth and increase blooms.

Is it okay to prune in the rain or when plants are wet?
No. Wet conditions increase the risk of spreading fungal diseases through cuts.

How often should I prune shrubs?
Most need annual or biannual pruning, but some fast-growers may benefit from a light touch a few times per year to maintain shape and size.